Romans introduction

This OET Readers’ Version was designed to be used with the Literal Version alongside, so you won’t get the best understanding from this single viewpoint. This is still an early look into the drafted text of the Open English Translation of the Bible. Please double-check the text in advance before using in public.

Introduction

Paulos’s letter to the believers in Romai was sent to both Yehudim and non-Jews who believe in, and trust, Yeshua (Jesus) the messiah. He wrote to them so that they could be prepared for when he could visit them there. Paulos planned to work there with other Christians for a while, then with their help, he would travel to Spania. He wrote in order to explain his understanding of Christian faith and of day-to-day living as Christians.

Paulos greets the believers there in Romai and he tells them about his prayers for them. Then he tells them the theme of his letter, “how God makes us guiltless—by faith.” (1:17a). All people, Jewish or not, need to become guiltless in God’s sight by means of faith in Yeshua Messiah.

Next Paulos tells them about new life by means of unity with the messiah thereby forming a new relationship with God. Believers will have peace from God and the power of Spirit of God will save them from the power of sin and of death. In chapters 5-8, Paulos explains about the purpose of God’s law and about the power of God’s spirit working through believers.

Paulos answers the question about how Yehudim and non-Jews fit into God’s plan for of all people. Paulos explains that the unbelief of Yehudim is part of God’s plan for a time so that the good message can be proclaimed to non-Jews. But concerning God’s choosing of Yehudim, he loved them very much due to his promise to their ancestors, and it’s as a result of them that all people can receive the love and mercy of God through the messiah Yeshua.

In the ending, Paulos explains how to live as a Christian, with the main need being to accept and love each other. He also includes themes like serving God, the responsibility of Christians the government, and for each individual, questions concerning the conscience. Paulos ends his letter and greeting others, and by his praising God.

Main components of Paulos’s letter

Introduction and theme 1:1-17

All people need salvation 1:18-3:20

God’s way of saving people 3:21-4:25

The new life in the messiah 5:1-8:39

God’s plan for Yisrael 9:1-11:36

Christian living 12:1-15:13

Concluding remarks and greetings 15:14-16:27

This is still an early look into the unpolished text of the Open English Translation of the Bible. Please double-check the text in advance before using in public.

OET-RV ROM Introduction